A suitcase cover made from an old T-shirt. How to sew a suitcase cover? What should you consider when doing this? Elastic suitcase cover to make a pattern

12.03.2024 -

For many years, the most important attribute of any traveler has been a suitcase, serving faithfully and storing huge amounts of clothing. Unfortunately, like all things, it does not last forever. But there is a way to extend the life of your “fellow traveler” - sew a protective cover for your suitcase.

To start, purchase materials that are waterproof and durable. Then you need to make a pattern for the suitcase cover. To do this, you must first decide how you will wear the accessory - from above or from below. We suggest you put it on from top to bottom, fastening the cover with a zipper. To do this, provide four valves in the pattern: two of them are located at the top and bottom, and a couple of others are lateral, serving as a fastener. In addition, when constructing the pattern, the “windows” of the wheels should be taken into account. And the handles - top and side - are best placed in a “pocket”, from where the devices can be easily removed using a zipper.

After taking all the measurements from the suitcase, you need to make a pattern on paper. After this, we proceed to cutting the fabric according to the pattern, taking into account 1-1.5 cm for seam allowances.

Well, after that you can start sewing a cover that you will use for its intended purpose. For additional protection, we recommend providing a lining, for example, made of padding polyester. The seams of the edges and fasteners should be done with strong threads. It is recommended to frame the pockets of the product as welt pockets with a tractor-type zipper.

All that remains is to put the cover on the suitcase. That's all!

Based on materials from womanadvice.ru

Hi all! My review today will come in handy for those who often travel and especially those who use suitcases. In our family, everyone has 2 of them. Small and big. Since we go on vacation twice a year, we have already seen a lot of things at airports and taken note of them. So, on our last trip, we noticed a cover on a suitcase from some foreigners and were inspired to buy the same one.

At home, we went to a bunch of stores and found such cases in only one and at an exorbitant price of about 30 dollars, plus on top of that there was only one. And we needed several at once! Out of desperation we decided to look at them on Aliexpress. Both my husband and I were very surprised to find a little case there. After that, I even began to think that Ali has everything!

So, the case was found just a few days before the 11.11 sale and it was decided to wait a couple of days to get it at a discount. The seller’s price at that time was around $15 (which is also acceptable). There were already only good reviews, so we didn’t take much risk, but still decided to take only one at first. To check the quality!

So, the day of the 11.11 sales has arrived and the price of our device has dropped to $9. Of course, without even thinking, I placed an order and waited. I don’t know what prompted me to check the card, but I discovered that almost $30 had been withdrawn. I was very upset and began to figure out what was going on. It turns out that I placed the order correctly, but for some reason the system processed it without a discount and the price turned out to be this. How I didn't notice, I don't know. I had to write to the seller and explain everything. He understood me immediately, although I wrote in broken English. The order was canceled and the money was promised to be returned within 7 days. Looking ahead, I will say that they were returned.

After consulting with the seller, I decided to re-order the case almost immediately. This time I looked carefully at the amount to be paid. Everything went fine. The total amount came out to 9 dollars. It feels like they wanted to fool me when I first ordered.

The goods were sent to me in 2 days and they gave me a track. Luckily, he was tracked all the way. It didn’t arrive as quickly as I expected, but still...34 days on the road.

The case itself was well packaged. Two packages. One is postal, the second is branded from him. Inside there were instructions and a gift - a nail file. The instructions said size M, although there was no choice when ordering. This means that the Chinese produce other sizes. Again, according to the instructions, it fits a suitcase size of 22-26 inches, in reality it is so.

We measured for two suitcases. He sat on both (one small, the other large) normally. It’s just that on the larger one (it’s in all the photos) it’s more tight, but on the small one it hangs a little.

The color matched the one we chose - with the inscription from Russia with Love. Everything turned out exactly as in the photo. Bright, cheerful, attractive. You will immediately recognize such a suitcase from a crowd, which is very important at the airport)

As for the material, everything is in order here too. It's kind of like thick lycra. Previously, lasins were made from this. Women will understand me) All seams are processed with high quality. Lycra is definitely not going to bloom. The lines are a little crooked, but this is not visible at all when stretched out. The cover survived the first wash very well. I didn’t paint over anything and didn’t lose my appearance.

Why do you need a suitcase cover at all? First of all, so that the suitcase does not get dirty on the road, in addition, the cover will not allow it to open unexpectedly. If you purchased a luxury suitcase before your trip, but the seller answered your question about the cover that they don’t sell such things in their store, don’t be upset. You can order the cover to be sewn at any sewing workshop or make it yourself. Below describes in detail how to do this.

How to sew a cover for a suitcase?

First of all, carefully inspect the suitcase. Think about whether you will need pockets? Don't forget about the "windows" for the handle and wheels. They can be made either open (in other words, they will simply be cutouts around the edges) or closed (in which case you will have to make flaps, and also use zippers or contact tape). The main elements include a pocket for the central handle, a pocket for the retractable handle, a pocket for the side handle (of course, if there is one) and windows for the wheels.

Defining the model

Are you going to sew a cover for a suitcase? Determine its future model. How are you going to put it on - from the top down (like putting a dress on over your head) or with a zipper sewn in the middle (like a jumpsuit). The first option is much easier to sew, so we will focus on it. Let's say there will be four valves at the bottom of the suitcase: two small (on the contact tape) and two large (on the zipper).

Let's get started

So, we are sewing a suitcase cover. First, make marks on it and take measurements. Most travel bag models have rounded corners. Therefore, to make it convenient for you to take measurements, stick thin strips on the suitcase (you can use masking tape for this) - this way you will mark the boundaries of future parts. Now “removing the form” will be much easier.

Pattern

A suitcase cover will require making a pattern - it can be made from paper or fabric. The pattern is created based on the measurements taken and the expected model of the case.

Trial model

If you have enough time, it’s better to start by sewing a trial model, because it’s not a fact that everything will work out the first time. Once you have the real product in front of your eyes, you can make all the necessary adjustments to the design. It should be noted that for the rough version it is better to take some simple, cheap fabric. It is not at all necessary to carefully process all the details; the main thing is to observe all the dimensions.

Let's get to the main point

After all the preparatory stages have been completed, you can finally cut out and sew a universal suitcase cover. A little advice: duplicate all the details on padding polyester - it will give the model softness and additional volume. Carefully handle seams, pockets and fasteners; Remember that the product must be distinguished, first of all, by high wear resistance. Hide the seams under the lining, make the pockets welted. In this case, it is better to take not “tractor” zippers, but “spiral” ones; it is also necessary to use high-strength threads.

Anastasia Volkova

Fashion is the most powerful of the arts. This is movement, style and architecture in one.

Content

Tourist trips, business trips - thousands of kilometers, many hours of flights. Travelers overcome them in comfort, sitting in the seats of airliners or train compartments. Luggage collects dust on the shelves of special compartments, gets bumped, and gets scratched against other things. A suitcase cover is an inexpensive protective accessory that will take care of the safety of your luggage. With it, the service life of your favorite suitcase will be longer, and its appearance will be neater.

Why do you need a suitcase cover?

A suitcase for travelers is an indispensable thing. Soft and hard-shaped, of any size, with or without wheels, there is a model to suit everyone’s taste. The service life directly depends on the frequency of trips, quality of manufacture, and careful operation. Protective coatings for travel bags will help extend the life of the product. This travel accessory has become commonplace and is becoming increasingly popular.

The protective case will become an indispensable thing for the owner. The cover will protect from external influences - dirt, dust, moisture, scratches and friction on luggage belts. In the hustle and bustle of train stations, airports, and hotels, there is a risk that someone will try to break into your bags for the purpose of theft. It is more difficult to do this with protective packaging; the thief will need more time, which will often force the attacker to choose a more accessible object.

At the airport you need to pack your things. This is a mandatory condition in some countries for the carriage of goods. You can wrap everything in film at train stations where they provide this service. The cost varies from 70 rubles to several dollars or euros, depending on the country. Reusable packaging saves that money when traveling. With it, additional rewinding of your luggage with disposable film is not necessary.

Baggage loading at the airport is carried out quickly, many actions are automated. Carelessness may result in damage to the case or its clasps. In this case, things fall apart. Dense removable shells protect the suitcase from mechanical damage to the travel bag locks, and the contents from spilling if a breakdown occurs. During extended customs inspection or if an item needed on the road is forgotten inside, access to the contents is quick and convenient. There is no need to repack your luggage.

Bright, stylish, uniquely designed protective coverings will make your luggage beautiful and noticeable. Finding it won't be difficult. There are no mistakes when you can confuse your things with someone else's. In a hurry, it’s easy to grab the wrong bags, but it’s more difficult to correct a mistake. Unique packaging will prevent this oversight. The chances of encountering an identical suitcase cover are small - the range of models is large.

Protective cover for suitcase

It is better to combine the purchase of a new cover with the purchase of the suitcase itself. This will allow you to accurately select the size and model. If replacement travel bags are not expected, then you can choose only one accessory. The choice is difficult - companies offer a huge number of options. The following brands are in demand: Samsonite, Fancy Armor, Routemark, Loqi, Mettle and some other brands.

Samsonite

Samsonite has been one of the leaders in the production of luggage products for over a hundred years. The brand enjoys well-deserved recognition among travelers in many countries. Recent awards include design awards for the Cosmolite, Litesphere, Inova, Lite-Biz and Lite-Shock collections. Popular Samsonite models:

Price – 2490-3690 rubles depending on size (S-L).
Characteristics – composition: polyester; 2 year warranty.
Pros - does not wrinkle, does not wear out, high fabric strength, has water-repellent impregnation.
Cons: the coating is thin and does not protect against impacts.

Price – 2990 rubles.
Characteristics – composition: polyester; 2 year warranty, model developed in collaboration with graffiti artist Keith Haring. For bag sizes up to 75 cm high.
Pros - does not wrinkle, does not wear out, high strength, has water-repellent impregnation.
Cons: thin coating.

Fancy Armor

The Russian company Fancy Armor specializes in the production of travel accessories. They also produce covers for suitcases. The brand produces universal protective packaging for travel bags of all shapes and sizes. They stand out for their bright and varied colors. The products are grouped into series: models made of spandex, extra durable.

Price – 1595-1745 rubles depending on size (S-XL).
Characteristics – composition: spandex with a density of 240 g/cm3; weight 250 g.
Pros: good elasticity, designer print.

Price – 1875 rubles.
Characteristics – composition neospan (analogue of neoprene), weight 370 g.
Pros - durable materials will reliably protect things from damage. The high quality of the fabric is achieved by special weaving, zippers with stoppers, and triple seams. Vivid design thanks to photographic drawings.

Routemark

The products of this brand stand out for their attractive and varied designs. Photographic quality of sublimation printing of images of a variety of topics: sea, cities, space, flowers, graphics and others. Fabrics: polyester, spandex, neoprene. A characteristic feature of the products is two hidden zippers for side handles on both sides. There is an additional elastic band and zipper at the bottom for secure fastening and fitting onto the suitcase. Comes with a separate accessory – a small bag.

Price – 1540 - 2080 rubles depending on size (S-XL).
Characteristics – spandex composition with a density of 240 g/cm3, weight up to 195 g.
Pros: designer print, high strength of the material, machine washable, triple treated seams.

Price – 1540 - 2080 rubles depending on dimensions (S-XL).
Characteristics – composition polyester 80%, elastane 20%.
Pros: wrinkle-resistant, machine washable, durable seams, expanded equipment, bright design.

Loqi

The German manufacturer LOQI Store GMBH produces products certified with the Oeko-Tex mark. This guarantees high quality materials and the absence of harmful substances. Stylish, bright designs with symbols of popular cities, graphic, fruit, and floral motifs successfully conquer the hearts of buyers around the world. The models are designed to fit popular travel bag sizes.

Price – 1500 - 1990 rubles depending on size (S-M).

Price – 1500 - 1990 rubles depending on dimensions (S-M).
Characteristics – composition polyester 85%, spandex 15%, weight: 225 g.
Pros: Durable, stretchable fabric, machine washable in cold water.

Mettle

The Russian company Mettle uses elastic fabric with a special UF-water-repellent impregnation to make covers. This technology protects not only from dust and moisture, but also from fading from ultraviolet rays. The case will preserve bright colors longer. The design provides two side zippers, reinforced with additional seams. Fastening with elastic band and clasp. An elastic band is sewn into the seams, which better fixes the packaging on the product.

Price – 1590 - 2090 rubles depending on size (S-L).
Characteristics – material polyester 82%, elastane 18%
Pros: durable, stretchable material, gift wrapping, storage bag included.

Price – 3350 - 3850 rubles depending on size (S-M).
Characteristics – composition 100% neoprene, printed pattern.
Pros: gift packaging, storage bag included, high-quality, wear-resistant material.

How to choose a suitcase cover

So, it was decided to buy a cover for the suitcase. Where to start to get the right accessory with the perfect look? You can buy it in a shopping center, or order it on websites, with delivery by mail. An online store of stylish travel accessories can attract you with the price of the goods. A promotion, sale, discount on the desired model is a good time to buy. When choosing, you should consider the following product parameters:

size;
material;
design features.

Models of suitcases and cases for them differ in size from different manufacturers. This criterion requires special attention. A small case will not fit on a large structure, and vice versa - a large package will have little functionality for a miniature travel case. The measurements taken will help you decide on the right option. An important point is that wheels are not taken into account when calculating dimensions. The following options are accepted as standards that apply to most models:

S – designed for products with a height of 50-55 cm, an average width and thickness of 40 x 24 cm;
M/L – will fit well on models with a height of 65-74 cm, width 43x50 cm, thickness 27x29 cm;
L/XL – for the most spacious trunks with dimensions: height from 75 to 84 cm, width 54, thickness 34 cm.

Suitcase covers are made from different materials: spandex, neoprene, lycra, polyester and others. One of the best is polyester. It is distinguished by its practicality, wear resistance, and water resistance. Retains color when washed, elastic, affordable. Found in mixed polyester and spandex fabric. It stretches; dressing the travel case in protective elastic fabric does not require much time and effort.

Suitcase covers are made from neoprene. Its advantages: softness, lightness, porosity, inexpensive price, resistance to temperature changes. Such protection will be effective against impacts and will not add weight to your luggage. You can only blame it for its monochromatic colors. For lovers of the classics who do not want to hide their luggage with a cover, we offer products made from PVC film with an elastic supplex on the side. The disadvantage is that they are not particularly durable.

No less important features of a suitcase cover are fastening elements and functional holes. According to the fixation mechanism, there are models with fasteners such as zipper, Velcro and buttons (plastic and metal). A zipper is a more reliable option; other fasteners may come unfastened, causing the cover to partially come off the suitcase. There are products with a special elastic belt. It is located between the wheels of the travel case, with clasps fastened over it. This option provides the most secure fastening.

When choosing, it is important to take into account the available holes for the side handles and wheels. Such cuts can be on one or both sides and can be equipped with additional fasteners. If the handle hole is only on one side, you need to make sure that the handle on the suitcase is positioned correctly. Depending on the number of wheels, there are luggage bags with two and four wheels. This design feature is taken into account by manufacturers of protective accessories.

Storing stylish travel bag accessories is easy. When folded, the cover takes up little space and easily fits in a small suitcase pocket. A quality product should have strong and durable seams. In places where there are slots for handles and wheels, the fabric must be carefully processed. This prevents seams from tearing and fabrics and threads from unraveling.

Every traveler has a suitcase in his arsenal, and sometimes more than one, and knows that this is a rather expensive pleasure. However, airport forklifts do not care what the price of the product is; their attitude towards work is often dismissive. Having found information on how to make a suitcase cover with your own hands and patterns for it, you can forever forget about the untidy appearance of the accessory. During the flight, you won’t have to worry about your suitcase being scratched, placed carelessly or dirty.

A cover is a useful thing that simplifies the care of your suitcase and maintains its attractive appearance. When getting ready for a trip, a traveler will not have to waste time and effort wrapping luggage with plastic wrap.

There are a number of advantages to using a suitcase cover:

protection of the product from damage and contamination;
saving time - care will be limited to simple washing in a machine;
protection from unauthorized actions by airport employees or dishonest people;
if the zipper breaks, things will not fall out;
if you are overweight at the check-in counter, it is easier to get extra things out of it than from a suitcase wrapped in film.

A significant feature is the original appearance. Made with your own hands, this unusual case catches your eye. This means that it is easier to spot it on the baggage belt upon arrival. And you don’t have to be afraid to confuse your suitcase with someone else’s.

Thus, a suitcase cover is a necessary thing. It would be a great idea to make it unique as well. All that remains is to use your imagination and use some simple tips on how to make it happen.

Suitable materials for sewing

During manufacturing, it is necessary to select the right material to implement the idea. The fabric for a suitcase cover must be strong and durable, as it is often cleaned.

These include:

Waterproof spandex. Its advantages: light weight, wear resistance, wide range of colors, strength, dirt-repellent properties. The material does not fade, stretches 5 times its original length and quickly returns to its original state. Disadvantages include the possibility of puffs forming and sensitivity to sunlight, due to which the product may lose color over time.

Elastic Lycra . The material is almost impossible to find in its pure form, without admixtures of other fabrics. It is better to choose combinations with footer or viscose - these are the densest options. The advantages of the fabric include the ability to stretch 8 times without losing its original shape. In addition, lycra is easy to care for; stains on the surface can be easily washed off. The price range varies depending on the composition. However, such fabric can fade when washed, and it is easy to get a snag on it.
Fabric burlap . A very durable fabric that has been actively gaining popularity in recent years. To sew a protective cover for a suitcase, you need to choose the maximum density. The advantages of burlap are: reliability, environmental safety, affordable cost. At the same time, the color palette is limited to just a few shades, the material is quite rough and may lose its shape after washing. Difficulties may also arise in the process of choosing a fastener for the case.

Burlap does not stretch, so it is impossible to make a mistake with the size of the fabric flap for the pattern.

You need to choose which material is best for a suitcase cover based on personal preferences in color, price and density. However, it will not be superfluous to take into account the conditions and frequency of operation of the product. It is also worth paying attention to the configuration and size of the bag itself.

Spandex

Made from spandex

Made from neoprene

Elastic Lycra

Lycra

Sackcloth

Creating a pattern

The most time-consuming and crucial moment is creating a pattern for a suitcase cover. It is necessary to carefully familiarize yourself with the location of all handles and wheels. Already at this stage, you should think about what these elements will be: closed (in the form of pockets with zippers, buttons, Velcro) or open - slits. This will help you decide how to properly put the cover on your suitcase, taking into account its features.

To design a pattern you will need the following equipment:

tracing paper (can be replaced with sheets of Whatman paper);
pencil;
masking tape;
scissors;
ruler or centimeter.

Let's get started by following the instructions:

First, we take measurements from all sides and draw rectangles on paper based on them.
If the corners are rounded, then stick strips of masking tape on them and outline them with a pencil.
We correct the 90-degree corners of the rectangle by transferring the necessary lines from the tape.
Mark the locations of the handles.
We make room for accessories (zippers, Velcro, ties).
We cut out the base of the cover according to the diagram.

The pattern is the basis of the product, and any error in it will affect the quality of the finished version.

Manufacturing instructions

Sewing suitcase covers is a process that requires pedantry. At the same time, you don’t need to be a professional seamstress to cope with this task. You just need to stock up on time and patience.

To make the case you will need:

finished pattern;
scissors;
needles with caps;
strong threads in the color of the fabric;
sewing machine;
fasteners.

Structuring the workspace and convenient placement of tools will help speed up the creation process. This will reduce the time it takes to create a pattern and sew a suitcase cover with your own hands.

From a knitted T-shirt or dress

There are situations when packing for a trip begins spontaneously and you have to improvise. Then available materials will help, for example, a bright T-shirt. In this case, it is worth considering that the item must correspond to the size of the suitcase.

So, we sew a suitcase cover ourselves in 5 minutes:

sew up the sleeves;
sew thick ropes, laces or ribbons to the bottom;
We pull the T-shirt over the suitcase;
turn the sleeves inside out - they will make additional pockets;
tie ribbons between the wheels.

And after going through your wardrobe, you can sew a suitcase cover from old jeans. They can be cut into pieces and created a single patchwork-style canvas. Stripes, lace or badges will help diversify the product.

Wear a T-shirt of the appropriate size on your suitcase

Sew up the sleeves and tuck them inside

Sewn sleeves can be used as pockets

Make a drawstring from the bottom of the T-shirt, insert a lace or rope

From burlap

It is worth paying special attention to this material because of its relevance and low cost. The sewing technology will be identical to working with elastic materials, but here you need to be extremely careful when taking into account the dimensions of the suitcase cover. Burlap does not forgive mistakes.

Let's analyze the process of creating a product in such a way that you can put the cover on a suitcase with wheels from top to bottom.

Stages of work:

attach the pattern to the selected material using sewing pins;
cut out the parts, leaving an allowance of 1–1.5 cm for the seams;
manually sweep elements, try them on, correct errors;
finally connect the parts on a sewing machine;
attach Velcro;
put on the case and go on a trip.

It doesn't matter whether the suitcase cover is made from a T-shirt, high-quality neoprene or jeans. This, first of all, is a creative process that can give a unique thing of its kind. The product will allow you to avoid unnecessary expenses on buying a new travel bag.

Ready case

Transferring the pattern to fabric

Sew in a zipper